Menopause is called "the change" for a reason, as the body undergoes hot flashes, sweating and changes in hormonal levels. A large percentage of women who are going through menopause will also experience hair loss. With all the changes in the body that come from growing older, losing hair can be one of the most disheartening. Applying treatment as soon as changes in hair and scalp are noticed can be an effective remedy.
About a third of all women experience some degree of thinning hair, or alopecia, as it is clinically known. Hormonal changes and imbalances during pre-menopause and menopause cause estrogen levels to drop. Other hormones, such as testosterone, remain at high levels and can even increase. When testosterone combines with the enzyme Alpha 5, DHT, or dihyrotestosterone, is created. DHT is the culprit responsible for hair loss.
A change in thyroid function can also contribute to menopausal hair loss. The thyroid is influenced by hormone levels and can become underactive. Additionally, stress, extreme weight loss and other physical changes such as illness can negatively affect the health of the hair and scalp.
There are a variety of options available for those who want to stop and reverse menopausal hair loss. Several prescription drugs that slow the development of testosterone and DHT in the body are now available. Propecia and Minoxidil are two popular hair loss treatments that not only stop hair loss for many, but also stimulate the scalp and hair follicles so hair grows back thicker and fuller.
Both of these treatments have been approved by the FDA. However, the majority of testing has been on men. Recent studies have shown that these medications can also benefit women, but further testing on women and menopausal hair loss is expected to continue.
Another treatment method to consider is the use of natural remedies. Diet and nutrition are crucial factors in maintaining a healthy head of hair. Vitamin B6, zinc, vitamin C and vitamin B12 are all building blocks of healthy skin, hair and nails. Although these nutrients can be found in a variety of foods, additional supplements may be needed. Eating estrogen-rich foods such as soy products, potatoes and yams may also help boost the estrogen levels in the body. Maintaining stable estrogen levels will help reduce the DHT that impedes hair growth.
A variety of herbal remedies have been used for many years to prevent hair loss and thinning hair. Saw Palmetto, nettle and black cohosh are popular herbal ingredients that stimulate hair growth. Some products on the market use a combination of herbs and other natural ingredients, such as B vitamins, to stop menopausal thinning dead in its tracks.
Provillus is a common treatment for both men and women. This FDA-approved nonprescription treatment combines Minoxidil with a proprietary blend of herbs and vitamins. Provillus works by inhibiting the production of DHT, stimulating the hair follicles and strengthening existing hair.
When trying a new hair treatment, allow plenty of time for hair loss to reverse and for new hair growth to occur. It can take three to four months for hair loss to stop and another three to six months for new hair growth to become noticeable. Staying patient and committed to finding the best menopausal hair loss treatment will allow for healthier, thicker hair.
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